BY PAULY SUBA
Journal Staff
Renowned mental health advocate Kevin Hines returned to Guam to share his powerful story of survival and resilience during the Todu Guam Foundation’s “Kindness Heals Week 2025: Powering Up for Mental Wellness.” The week-long event, held from January 13 to 18, highlighted mental health awareness and suicide prevention through community outreach and engagement.
At 19, Hines survived a suicide attempt by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge—a feat only 1% of those who jump have survived. Today, he travels the world to inspire others. “I got the gift of a second chance,” Hines said during an interview on the journal's sister station, Wave 105. “I’m not going to squander that gift. I’m going to share a story of hope, healing, and recovery from brain pain.”
As part of Kindness Heals Week, Hines delivered keynote presentations through the Todu Guam Foundation’s MindCare Program, which provides support for those battling anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. He also visited schools, first responders, and organizations to conduct workshops designed to strengthen Guam’s mental health resources.
The community was also invited to two key events: a free screening of his documentary Suicide: The Ripple Effect and a sunset 5K Fun Run/Walk. The documentary, which highlights stories of recovery and resilience, has reportedly saved over 1,000 lives.
“Suicide doesn’t take the pain away. It transfers it onto everyone you’ve ever loved left behind,” Hines said. He encouraged the island community to embrace kindness and empathy, adding, “We have an opportunity this week to witness a truth… and have a ripple effect to change many lives.”
Hines emphasized the importance of recognizing and validating emotional struggles, comparing them to physical pain. “What’s the one thing you want to happen when you find yourself in excruciating physical pain? You want it to stop, go away and relieve,” he said. “With brain pain, people around you are invalidated. I cannot see it. Therefore, it must not be real. That’s not fair.”
Hines pointed to resources such as faith, family, friends, and organizations like the Todu Guam Foundation as vital support systems for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Hines urged the community to offer support and understanding. He said, “If we can validate their pain, maybe they won’t want to stop it. Maybe they’ll want to overcome it. Maybe they’ll want to thrive despite it. Maybe they’ll want to keep going. Maybe they’ll want to be here more—and every day after that."
Hines also praised Guam for its warmth and hospitality. “Of all the places we’ve visited, this is our favorite,” he said. “It’s because of the people here… Guam, we love you and thank you for having us.”mbj